Wolf shot down in Defereggental: Safety measure of the state government!

Wolf shot down in Defereggental: Safety measure of the state government!

St. Veit in Defereggen, Österreich - On June 6, 2025, a wolf was shot in the Defereggental on the basis of a previously issued launch regulation. This decision was the result of a risk situation that was triggered by several risks in East Tyrol.

The Tyrolean state government had already issued a regulation on April 30 that allowed the shooting of a so -called “risk wolf” in several hunting areas of the Lienz district. This regulation came into force at midnight and applies for a period of eight weeks. The affected hunters were informed in good time.

background of the shooting regulation

in St. Veit in Defereggen had occurred several risks in April, more precisely on 8th, 11th and 19th of the month. In these incidents, an injured and killed sheep and two dead lambs were discovered. In addition, two other lambs and a parade sheep were registered as degree. The suspicion of the participation of a wolf was hardened by the analysis of swab samples, which clearly showed the DNA of a wolf. This led to the assessment of security by the wolf, which was clearly emphasized by LHStV Josef Geisler.

The population in the region was asked to report sightings and observations using a viewing form in order to further assess the risk and to react adequately.

examination of the killed animal

The shot wolf was brought to Innsbruck to the Ages (agency for health and nutritional security), where an exact examination of the animal is to be carried out. This is an important step to draw further conclusions about the behavior of the wolves and their influence on the local animal population.

wolves are an important topic for wolf management in Austria. According to the WWF, there are different approaches that aim to ensure both the security for people and the protection of the wolves. In this context, it is discussed what a responsible handling of the animal species can look like, especially in regions in which conflicts occur.

The situation in the Defereggental shows how important it is to find the balance between nature conservation and the security needs of the population. The debate about how to deal with wolves will surely have to be continued in the coming weeks and months.